Hard time better than soft prisons

HAVING read Tom Halpin's letter (Debate, 21 March) I agree we must address the root cause of criminal behaviour, but I cannot agree prison is not the answer.

His view is mainly based on the large number of reoffenders who end up back in jail. But this only suggests our holiday camp prisons are no longer a deterrent. It has even been suggested that miscreants are disappointed if they receive an Asbo, preferring a short stay inside instead.

There they will have their en-suite cells, flat-screen TV, computer games and now, believe it or not, their own cell keys where they can wander off for a game of snooker or to the gym. It has also just been announced they are to be entertained by an opera company. What next, a visit from Susan Boyle?

I remember the days when prisoners used to make ladders to escape. Now it could be to gain entry.

Jim Borrie, Largs